Site Development: Strategies
Key Details
Learn effective site development strategies that align with federal government contracting requirements.
Start with Thorough Site Assessment and Planning
Every great project begins with deep understanding of the land. Here are some tips we implement with all of our projects:
- Conduct comprehensive surveys (boundary, topographic, and utility locating) to map elevations, boundaries, and existing features.
- Perform soil testing and geotechnical analysis to evaluate bearing capacity, composition, and potential contaminants.
- Assess environmental factors: drainage patterns, flood zones, wetlands, vegetation, and wildlife habitats.
- Review local zoning, permitting, and building codes early to avoid surprises.
Best practice tip: Create a detailed site plan early, involving engineers, environmental consultants, and local authorities. This foundational step identifies constraints and opportunities, saving time and money downstream.
Prioritize Sustainable Land Clearing and Grading
Clearing removes obstacles, while grading shapes the site for stability and drainage. Here's are some guidlines we recommend:
- Use selective clearing to preserve valuable trees and minimize erosion—employ low-impact methods where possible.
- Grade strategically: Achieve proper slopes (typically 2-5% away from structures) to direct water runoff and prevent pooling.
- Implement erosion control measures from day one: silt fences, straw wattles, sediment basins, and temporary seeding.
Key strategy: Balance efficiency with environmental stewardship—responsible clearing protects soil health and complies with stormwater regulations, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Integrate Effective Drainage and Erosion Control
Water is the #1 enemy of any construction site.
- Design and install stormwater management systems: swales, French drains, retention ponds, or permeable surfaces.
- Use best management practices (BMPs) like stabilized construction entrances to prevent sediment tracking onto roads.
- Plan for temporary and permanent drainage during development.
Pro tip: In hilly or rainy areas like North Idaho, over-design drainage slightly—better to handle excess water proactively than fix flooding later.
The groundwork aRCHIVES
Dive into some of our other posts
The Groundwork
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